Nail Regrowth

It has been a VERY long time coming but I think I finally have my nails back!
From somewhere around 8th grade until I was diagnosed and started Chemo in May 2012- I have had long, beautiful nails. They were strong and healthy and a bit of a trademark of ME. When one would break and I'd have to cut it down- I felt awkward and handicap. I couldn't imagine how women could stand to not have them long.
As you can imagine- It was hard when my nails started splitting and cracking to the point where I would have to keep them really short (see Oct 2012 pic). It was just another one of those things that as a cancer survivor- you deal with.
After I finished my Treatments- Chemotherapy in June 2012 and Herceptin in March 2013, I waited for my nails to return to normal. BUT they didn't. It was frustrating! I asked my doctor and he said it would just take time. Unfortunately, that's usually the answer to everything in this journey.
However- they were right. It just took time. NINETEEN-19  months to be exact. But they are back and that makes me happy!

Call of the Wild Workout Posse

Since Breast Cancer made me into a worker-outer, I spend quite a bit of time at the YMCA getting and staying buff! At the beginning of the year, my Workout Posse (Robbie & Katie- BFFs forever!) and I signed up for the The Trek: Call of the Wild Challenge put on by our very own Caleb Johnson (our LiveStrong Buddy!).
For the past couple months, we have been tracking our workouts in hopes to complete our 20 hour Trek. It was hard work but we all made it! Way to go us!!!

Here's what the information the Y sent out:

Stay active this winter and you could WIN!
GRAND PRIZE = $3,000 Vacation Package
This fitness challenge is designed to keep you motivated to stay active during the harsh winter by recording a virtual trek across the Yukon in search of gold!

Through your own strenuous efforts, you can retrace the journeys of Jack London or Martha Black. Jack London, the author of The Call of the Wild, was inspired from his 1887-1898 journey for gold in the Yukon. Martha Black, a determined pioneer and business women, journeyed the Yukon in 1899 in search for wealth and adventure. The trail will be challenging, but with a little grit and perseverance, you yourself will be inspired, find adventure, and strike it rich with prizes and improved wellness.

WHAT ARE THE PRIZES?

PARTICIPANT PRIZES: Prize #1: Travel bag
Prize #2: Dry Fit Shirt      

GRAND PRIZE:
$3,000 VACATION PACKAGE -
Choose Your Own Destination!

ADDITIONAL FINISHER DRAWINGS: $50.00 Gift Cards

HOW DOES IT WORK? After registering an d submitting the $25.00 entry fee, each participant will receive an official map of The Call of the Wild. Participants will choose ONE of two possible routes and have eight weeks to perform 20 or 30 hours (depending on route chosen) of aerobic activity to complete the Trek. For every 15 minutes of aerobic activity you complete between January 11 – March 8 you will earn ¼ mile. As you progress through your journey, you will be rewarded with individual prizes at specific check points and will also be eligible for the Grand Prize Drawing and additional finisher drawings upon completion.

CHOOSE ONE ROUTE: The Dyea Route (Jack London) (20 hours) is the basic route that will qualify participants for the participant prizes and the grand prize drawing. For the exerciser in search of a challenge, the Skagway Route (Martha Black) (30 hours) adds 10 additional hours to the Trek. Upon completion of the Skagway route, you will qualify for additional gift card drawings to celebrate your heroic efforts.

Please Note: Although you do not need to be a YMCA member to join, participation in this challenge does not include a YMCA membership or access to the YMCA for participants who are not members.

For more information, please contact Caleb Johnson, Healthy Living Director at 701.356.1447 or caleb.johnson@ymcacassclay.org.

P.S. Robbie won a couple extra things at the end. Fun for her!!

BOOBLESS- My Surgery Recovery: (with Pictures)

This post is dedicated to living BOOBLESS! LOL 

It's been six months since my surgery to remove both my breasts. I have hesitated to include this post due to it's graphic and possible offensive nature BUT this is the reality of breast cancer with a bilateral mastectomy. And afterall the reality of My Breast Cancer Adventure is why I am keeping this record.
I have mentioned it before but another reality of Breast Cancer is that time passes, the shock and worry for those around you fades and everyone "moves on" from the craziness surrounding your diagnosis. But MY reality is that it will never go back to normal. Whatever NORMAL is, right? Taking a shower will never revert back to cleaning a body with a female chest for me. Getting dressed each morning and having to make the decision whether to wear "boobs" or not will always be a part of my life. Not that it hugely matters but it is a daily reminder that Breast Cancer has changed me forever.
My decision to NOT do reconstruction was a personal one. One that seemed natural and less complicated for me. It was one less long-drawn-out-process to avoid.  Before I started this adventure I was unaware that reconstruction takes a minimum of 4-6 months depending on the size you want. And then an extra surgery! um....No thanks!
Another logical reason for me was due to the fact that foobs don't last forever. What? I guess nothing really does, right? The doctors informed me that because I was young I would need to have them replaced once maybe twice in my lifetime. That was not an appealing option for me. Besides, I am an "options" girl and how fun is it that I have so many choices of breast sizes now that I gave myself a flat canvas to work with. ;) Shopping for new breasts was way more fun that I thought it would be! And bonus- I technically could get a new pair of perfectly perky boobs every year for the rest of my life. How many women can say that? LOL
One thing that I did NOT expect was the fact of how often I would choose to not wear anything. Now that I am a worker-outer, it is way more convenient to be boobless. "Boob sweat" is a thing of the past for me, my friend! Besides running on the treadmill and bouncing in Zumba- piece of cake for me now! ;)
One thing that has been a little disappointing was the fact that I had in my head that after my surgery, I would have a perfectly flat chest. The harsh fact of scars never even crossed my mind. Stupid, I know. But it wasn't something I was expecting. Before my surgery  I had came across this elegant black & white picture of this woman that had a bilateral mastectomy  She's beautiful and flat chested-- flawless. That's what I was looking for. Well, at least at first glance and to an untrained (a non-mastectomy participant) eye that's what she seemed to me. Now six months down the road and with a more-than-I-ever-wanted-to-know knowledge, I can see her scars and the fact that her arms stretched up and it being printed without color gives a false impression of perfection. Interesting how we only see what we have the ability to comprehend. {Back in July, I even thought about taking the picture to my surgeon so he knew what I was expecting. I never was brave enough to take it in to him. Maybe I should have??? Oh well! Too late now. Bummer!}
Anywho-- regardless of my pre-amputation expectations, flawless & flat chested is NOT my reality. I had two different surgeons on my big day. Not sure if that added to my certain outcome but in my opinion, one took off too much and the other left too much. Over time and a little beefing up some muscle (LOL), I hope that they will even out a bit. However, regardless of time, two 5 inch scars (and two tiny poke holes from my drains) are now permanent features of my front side. Like I said--- Breast Cancer has changed me forever!
As I talk to (or read) others, it seems everyone has a different opinion about the importance of breasts and whether to reconstruct some resemblance of a former life. Some women (and some husbands:) actually have very strong opinions about breasts. Imagine that! ;) I guess I can understand how people would feel somewhat "attached" to them. LOL But for me, boobless is an ok option!

6 days after Surgery: With Drains in

17 days after surgery: Sterry strips off

1 month after surgery: Healing

Six weeks after Surgery

6 Months after Surgery

Benefits of my new Work-Out Lifestyle

Since my life revolves around working out now (Go ahead and laugh KBro!) ...

I have done a little research on exercise and it's benefits. Since I have had a few months of depressing things [and I'm not even thinking about the Cancer part], I thought it was interesting that I came across this article from Wedmd.com that address the benefits of regular exercise on depression. I LOVE everything it has to say! It would be interesting to see how hard these last few frustrating life events would have been without my new Work-out Lifestyle. Crazy how God looks out for us and puts the things that we truly need into our lives right when we need them! Lucky me! ;)

What Are the Psychological Benefits of Exercise With Depression?

Improved self-esteem is a key psychological benefit of regular physical activity. When you exercise, your body releases chemicals called endorphins. These endorphins interact with the receptors in your brain that reduce your perception of pain. 

Endorphins also trigger a positive feeling in the body, similar to that of morphine. For example, the feeling that follows a run or workout is often described as "euphoric." That feeling, known as a "runner's high," can be accompanied by a positive and energizing outlook on life.

Endorphins act as analgesics, which means they diminish the perception of pain. They also act as sedatives. They are manufactured in your brain, spinal cord, and many other parts of your body and are released in response to brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. The neuron receptors endorphins bind to are the same ones that bind some pain medicines. However, unlike with morphine, the activation of these receptors by the body's endorphins does not lead to addiction or dependence.

Regular exercise has been proven to:

* Reduce stress

* Ward off anxiety and feelings of depression

* Boost self-esteem

* Improve sleep

Exercise also has these added health benefits:

* It strengthens your heart.

( It increases energy levels.

* It lowers blood pressure.

* It improves muscle tone and strength.

* It strengthens and builds bones.

* It helps reduce body fat.

* It makes you look fit and healthy.

Is Exercise a Treatment for Clinical Depression?

Research has shown that exercise is an effective but often underused treatment for mild to moderate depression.

Are there Types of Exercises That Are Better for Depression?

It appears that any form of exercise can help depression. Some examples of moderate exercise include:

Biking

Dancing

Gardening

Golf (walking instead of using the cart)

Housework, especially sweeping, mopping, or vacuuming

Jogging at a moderate pace

Low-impact aerobics

Playing tennis

Swimming

Walking

Yard work, especially mowing or raking

Yoga

Because strong social support is important for those with depression, joining a group exercise class may be beneficial. Or you can exercise with a close friend or your partner. In doing so, you will benefit from the physical activity and emotional comfort, knowing that others are supportive of you.

How Can I Decide What Types of Exercise to Do?

Before you begin an exercise program for depression, here are some questions you should consider:

What physical activities do I enjoy?

Do I prefer group or individual activities?

What programs best fit my schedule?

Do I have physical conditions that limit my choice of exercise?

What goals do I have in mind? (For example: weight loss, strengthening muscles, improving flexibility, or mood enhancement)

How Often Should I Exercise?

Try to exercise at least 20 to 30 minutes, three times a week. Studies indicate that exercising four or five times a week is even better. Take it easy if you are just beginning. Start exercising for 20 minutes. Then you can build up to 30 minutes.

What Are Some Tips for Getting Started Exercising?

When you first start your exercise program, you should plan a routine that is easy to follow and maintain. When you start feeling comfortable with your routine, then you can start varying your exercise times and activities.

Here are some tips to help you get started:

Choose an activity you enjoy. Exercising should be fun.

Put your exercise routine into your schedule. If you need reminding, put it on your calendar.

Variety is the spice of life. Make sure you vary your exercises so that you don't get bored. Check your local gymnasium or community center for an assortment of exercise programs.

Don't let exercise programs break the bank. Unless you are going to be using them regularly, avoid buying health club memberships or expensive equipment.

Stick with it. If you exercise regularly, it will soon become part of your lifestyle and will help reduce your depression.

Live Strong Results

Today was the final assessment of my LiveStrong program. It's a little lot bitter sweet! I have really come to enjoy spending two days a week with these awesome people. I even asked Katelyn if I could just be a life-long Livestrong groupie but she just laughed. Do you think that's a NO? LOL I will miss being part of this fun group so much! I do have to admit though that I have been amazed at how much I have enjoyed working out! It makes me laugh every time that I say that out loud! LOL 

Here are my outstanding final results for my LiveStrong process. Go me!:

	In the Beginning 09/12/12	6 week 10/29/12	12 week 11/28/12
Anthropometric Measurements
Weight	133.8	138.6 (muscle?)	136.4
Body Measurements	Didn’t do- Bummer!	Chest- 33 in	Chest- 33 in
		Waist-  31 in	Waist-  30 in
		Hips/Butt- 39 in	Hips/Butt- 37 in
		Thigh- 23 in	Thigh- 21 in
		Calves- 14 ½ in	Calves- 14 in
		Bicep- 10 ½ in	Bicep- 10 in
Cardiovascular Options:	3 minutes walk- 4.2 laps	6 minutes run-  9. 2  laps	6 minutes run-  11 laps
Functional/Upper and Lower Body Strength
Balance:	60 seconds on left foot	60 seconds on left foot	60 seconds on left foot
Chair Stand/Squats:	19 repetitions executed in 30 seconds	24 repetitions executed in 30 seconds	22 repetitions executed in 30 seconds (my chair slipped LOL)
Arm Curls in 30 seconds:	3 lbs. 15 reps  Left hand	5 lbs. 22 reps Left hand	5 lbs. 23 reps Left hand

And then simply just for MY benefit (cuz I realize that not many people care what my butt looks like {except maybe Brett. LOL oh... and KBro when she comes with me to the Infusion Center. ;)}, I have been keeping track through pictures of my LiveStrong transformation. It's only subtle but I can totally see the lift of my butt and the loss of some love handles. Go me!!! 
Feel free to NOT scroll down if shots of my butt make you uncomfortable. I won't be offended! LOL

Robbie, Katie and I have plans to keep up being Fitness Freak Groupies. Hopefully, this work out thing is just a part of me now.
Thanks LiveStrong (and Katelyn, since she'll always have a special place in my healthy heart) for the jump start on healthy living and my tight butt!!!!  Wahoo!!!!

Black Friday Zumba

Ever since our LiveStrong group tried out Zumba, we've been hooked! Except for my Herceptin treatments, we Zumba every Friday! It's so much fun! Katie started coming with us as well and a few ladies from the 1st ward go regularly on Fridays. Not to mention we've made a few friends that we see all the time. It's quite a party group we got! Love it! 

The Y Instructor that we love is Shelle Moran. She likes to call her class- Shake it with Shelle Zumba! And there's a reason for that. We lovingly call her the energizer bunny! She is so spunky and full of energy. And we do a LOT of shaking! LOL We like to pretend that the way she Zumbas is how we actually look when WE do it! That's not the reality but we have good imaginations. :) 

Today, Shelle threw a Black Friday Zumba Party! There was glow necklaces, streamers, lights and a drawing after every song for a prize. It was way fun! Katie even won a DVD! Wahoo! {Robbie was a slacker and didn't set her alarm. Stinker!- We missed you, lady} After class, we all posed for a picture. And you know how happy that pictures make me. It was my lucky day!!!

Here's my cute Zumba class making our "gansta" faces and just being awesome! 

Short Nails

I have had LONG nails for as long as I could remember. In fact, any time I cut my nails short because of one breaking, I felt handicap! How do people function with short nails?, I would wonder. Also, my nails always grew in pairs. If one thumb broke, the next one to break would inevitably be the other thumb. I guess even my hands want life to be "Fair". LOL 

When I was diagnosed with cancer, I heard icky stories of people losing nails through chemo treatments. WHAT? Not something I was looking forward to. So back in May, I took a snap shot of my beautiful, strong, long fingernails. You know... just in case.

After 4 rounds of chemo, all I had experienced was dry skin! (And lots of that!) But nothing I couldn't handle. I figured my nails were here to stay! Hallelujah!
However, sometime in September (nearly 2 months after my last Chemo treatment), my nails started breaking and hang nails attacked every single finger! What is going on here??? People keep telling me I just need to be patient! [Not a strong point of mine, btw!] I finally had to just cut them all off. Once one nail barely grows over the end of my finger, it tears or breaks. So irritating! OH! the never-ending gifts from Cancer!
So, perhaps one day, I will get my beautiful long nails back but for now... I am learning to not be retarded with a shorter version and learning to love lots of lotion!

Class 5 Medical Clearance- DRAMA!

These last couple weeks have been filled with all sorts of emotions in regards to our "Out of Country" Adventure.

A couple of weeks ago, we were so excited that we have beat Cancer, are continuing to get ready to go (getting rid of things around the house, getting our passport stuff sent off, changing our post of duty date, etc.) and finally got all our my medical stuff off to the State Department. We had prayed long and hard to make the decision to go and have only felt that cancer was a little bump in our road. We are so ready to get on with things!
Then on October 1st, we received an email from the State Department. We I have received a class 5 (domestic only) medical clearance. Let's say feelings of denial and shock were probably first to hit. Are you kidding me?? What else can be thrown in our way? It's getting a bit ridiculous if you ask me! As soon as I read the line about an opportunity to have them review the decision, I wrote the Review Board an email. Funny thing actually- I decided to start an email and then had plans to talk to the State Department lady first to know what details to include to help my case. I went to save it in my Draft Folder and accidentally pushed send. Oops! Oh well! At least they know we want it reviewed and we can send details when they respond. LOL Too funny! At least I told them what I wanted and who I was. Technology bloopers can be so funny!
Here's the Email I received from the State Department on October 1st:

Dear Mrs. Seamons,
Your medical clearance review is complete.  Your case was discussed with Medical Clearances Medical Advisor, who recommends issuing a class 5 (domestic only) medical clearance until 4/2013 at which time your case can be re-evaluated.  This decision was made secondary to your continued medical treatment for the medical condition followed by Dr. Panwalkar.
Per 16 FAM211.2 (c), a class 5 clearance is issued to all who have a medical condition which is incapacitating or for which specialized medical care is best obtained in the United States.  Employees or eligible family members with a class 5 medical clearance may not be assigned outside of the United States.
If you have any questions you may contact me at      or at this email address.
You may request a review of this decision by requesting a file review by a three physician Medical Review Panel (MRP). If you wish to proceed with such review, please send an email to MEDMRP@state.gov .
Respectfully,
Sharon Mallory, RN
Nurse Consultant
Department of State
Office of Medical Clearances

The next couple days were filled with sadness and confusion. Answers to prayers can be so tricky. We know that we received the answer that we should take our family to Colombia. At least that's what we thought. Back at the end of last year, Colombia wasn't even an option. But we were looking for a new position and had asked the Lord to send us where He wanted us to go. Out of the blue, International called and offered us the Colombia position. Specifically in our prayers, we asked over and over again for His influence on those making the decision to put us where He would have us go. Then even after the offer, we took several days to think and pray about it and decided that that is where the Lord wanted us. BUT.. then we were diagnosed with Cancer. Are you freakin' kidding me??? Even then, after the initial shock, we felt like this is where the Lord would have us go, that we would beat the Cancer and do our best to go where God wants us regardless of obstacles that stand in our way.
Now this....
What does THIS mean? Brett and I have discussed a couple Scripture stories of answered prayers lately. And basically we are trying to decide what story our life resembles. One of the stories is about a man that asks over and over and over again for the same thing. And even though God says no, he repeatedly keeps asking until God says ok truly thinking he is doing a good thing. But the consequences of that action are life-altering (and not necessarily in a good way). The other story is of a man who is given an errand from the Lord. But then is thwarted by obstacles on every side. Others tell him he should give up but he will not. He will go and do what the Lord asked him- not matter what! And He does (after some pretty hard stuff) and the results is lives changed forever for the better!
So... what is OUR answer??? Is it-- "The answer is NO! Are you listening???" or is it "Work harder. Find a way!"? Frankly at this point, I don't know. Brett and I tried to talk about it but every conversation ended up in tears (me- not Brett) so we decided to let the dust settle a bit before we do anything. We haven't had a chance to talk to International yet so we're not sure what this would mean for Brett's position and the possibility of holding it any longer. So far they have been so patient and understanding. But there's gotta be a point where they just say "forget it", right?
Unfortunately for me, the Review Panel got back to us really fast, forcing me to face this sooner than I want to. But they got back to me quickly and the email looks encouraging so chin up, right?
Email from Review Panel on October 3rd:

Dear Ms. Seamons,
I am glad to initiate your request for a  Medical Review Panel (MRP) assessment of the medical clearance decisions made by MED/Clearances on your  Class 5 Clearance.    The following is a brief description of the process:
The Medical Review Panel process begins with a written request for an appeal of medical clearance to my office.   I will review the available electronic medical record and any other information provided for consideration.   Then a panel of three physicians who are familiar with living and working overseas will review the file and the request.  The panel makes a recommendation to the Medical Director, who makes a final decision on all cases.   The process normally takes about 7-10 days once all of the needed information and/or documentation are received.
 I will review your medical record in the next several days and contact you if additional information would be helpful.   If you have supplemental information you would like for the panel to consider, by all means, prepare something for them but please be brief-limit your explanation to one page if possible.  If you have questions regarding the reasons behind MED/Clearances decision, you should contact them directly at  MEDClearances@state.gov.  I would suggest that any supplemental information you desire the panel to consider also address those reasons, issues, or concerns raised by MED/Clearances.
I (we) look forward to working with you.
Sabrina R. Haas, MD

OR NOT! We were just getting our feet back under us to be able to call and see what we need to get to help our case when we received the next email. Let's just say that the shock, denial, sadness and confusion has turned to anger. I feel like I have done everything that I possibly could to be healthy and cancer-free so that our family could have this opportunity of a lifetime. It seems so unfair (and don't give me the "life's not fair" line cuz I don't really want to hear that this week) that I am in BETTER health now then I was before I was diagnosed but they won't clear us because some study says that Herceptin for a year is "recommended". It's such crap!!! Seriously! Everyone says a positive attitude is what beats cancer but these doctors are doing everything to ruin any positive outlook I have!!! Oh I know...Let's just keep her on a experimental drug that will cause heart failure so then we can deny her for that too! It's crap, I tell you! I know I am being unreasonable and not thinking straight but I am just SOOOOO freakin' mad!

Email from October 5th:

Good morning Mrs. Seamons,
I just left you a message at home to talk directly but wanted to give you some more information.  In speaking with the Medical Review Panel yesterday regarding your case, we cannot even panel your case or consider a Class 2 Clearance until you have completed your Herceptin (whether it be in November or later upon agreement with Dr. Panwalker) . At that point Medical Clearances will need an updated report from Dr. Panwalker  demonstrating completion of therapy and stability and with no evidence of cancer recurrence, as well as detailed summary of follow up imaging studies needed and frequency (MRI’s, CT scans) and  physician/ oncologist follow up.
I still am available to discuss your case in the meantime.
Thank you, Dr. Haas
Sabrina R. Haas, MD
Chief,Exam Clinic
Office of Medical Services
Department of State

October 9th:
Four days later, I have calmed down a little- and I mean a tiny little bit. My anger is more of sadness and frustration and ????? Who the heck knows! If someone could just tell me how to feel and what to do- that would be great! With Brett's insistence, we conference-called Dr. Haas to discuss a few things this morning. She was very kind but it wasn't exactly the phone call we were hoping for. We talked for a very long time and she threw out so much information that I'm not even sure what was all said but the main gist is this:
You only get one shot at a Review Panel. And they will NOT even begin a panel until I am completely done with treatment. And then I would need a very specific letter from Dr. Panwalker stating that I am finished with treatment, along with any future followups that are required including doctor checkups, MRI, scans, blood work, etc. Then, with all that information, the Review Panel would look at all the info, compare it to their guidelines and their medical opinions and if they feel any of the followup could even be done in Colombia and finally make a decision they feel would be best. So basically, it's still not a done deal but a "my life is in their hands" coin toss. ALSO-- If I quit Herceptin early (which I also have felt like was an answer to my prayers) and Dr. Panwalker doesn't agree, there is a good chance that the Review board would deny my case anyways for not following a doctor's recommendation. Screwed if you try not to ruin your heart/ screwed if you don't! I can't win!
She kept saying that they "want" people to be able to travel internationally but at this point my bad attitude has a different opinion!

October 10th (& into the 11th): 
Tonight and right into the morning, I had a long discussion/cry/scream with Brett to figure out our options. Let's just say, I don't handle conversations like this well. I feel helpless! First of all, I just want one other person to think that I should get off the Herceptin because it's what is best for me! But alas I am the only one. And it looks like it's the only way to even have an option to still go. Even then- I am totally confused at what God wants me to do? Why won't He just tell me. Cuz I would do it!
Even with my complete meltdown here on the blog, (cuz I actually have been pretty busy in real life), I do know God loves me! I really do and know that He has a plan and that it is way better than the one I have BUT I am so mad right now! I just can't see any direction or answer!!!

So as of this very early hour, (perhaps it is the lack of sleep? LOL) I have decided to keep taking Herceptin for the "doctor recommended" time and see what happens. Looks like we are here at least until April or until God tells us to move somewhere else.
Alright.... Enough blabbing for a lifetime so there you go! The Seamons' Colombian/ UnAnswered Prayers Drama!

LiveStrong Brochure

I have been really enjoying the LiveSTRONG Program at the YMCA. It has been fun to be brave enough to  go to the gym and get this--- actually workout! Wow! Are you surprised???? Can you believe that I just said it has been fun to work out! There must be something seriously wrong with me. OR maybe there's finally something seriously right with me. LOL
I have made some amazing friends in the Program. It's been a lot of fun to have October be Breast Cancer Awareness Month because it has given us many excuses to get together at the events. [And yes- I know it's only the beginning of the month] It feels like I am going to them with a big group of friends. I love it!
Also, our little group had the opportunity to help update the Fargo YMCA LiveSTRONG brochure. At one of our sessions, we took a little time to have the marketing director take pictures of us. We had a blast! We smiled, hugged, threw leaves at each other, hiked to the river in the freakin' cold, and even took some in the weight room. So much fun! But then again- I'm always up for having a camera around. It made my day!
Here's what the new brochure looks like. Isn't it so beautimus? Our whole group is on the back in the leaves including our amazing Trainer, Katelyn and our fun intern, Nicole. On the front, Katelyn's encouraging Denise and Jennifer to step it up and go faster on the bikes. (She's so mean! LOL) Then in the inside, there I am working out! See- there's even proof! Go me!
I'm so glad Robbie talked me into signing up and being brave enough herself to go with me. You are awesome! Wouldn't want to "GLOW" with anyone else. Luv ya, lady!

Here's some of the other fun shots we got during our photo shoot. Aren't we so cute?

 We went out to Island Park where we threw leaves in the air.

And then threw leaves at each other!

Then we walked over to the Red River. Nicole stuck her foot in the water. Silly girl!

Back in the weight room, Katelyn was such a hoot. She's such a great motivator and a ham for the camera. She should be a model. LOL We love her!

https://picasaweb.google.com/111503550070915712854/YMCA?locked=true#

What a fun experience! Thanks Katelyn for letting us be a part of it!

"Not Present"

On September 6th, I finally was able to complete my Physical with Dr. Card. After being diagnosed, I had decided to wait until after I healed from surgery to do it. (All the rest of the family had there's done back in April) Dr. Card did the normal checkup stuff along with the things required of us by the State Department. These included blood drawn (what's one more prick?), a pap smear (always fun), HIV testing (What????), an EKG of my heart and a Tetanus-Diphtheria-Acellular-Pertussis shot (OK, what's two more pricks?). You know... all the fun stuff! I teased that if I end up with HIV then I will take a hint and NOT leave the country. LOL But if not.... then watch out South America! We're coming!
Skip ahead a week---
We got all our paperwork back from my Physical. For the official record, I do not have HIV. Good thing. ;) But funny little story... (cuz we are so funny, don't ya know!) One of the forms that Dr. Card had to fill out was my Clinical Evaluation. It has every part of my body written down on a list. Then there are 4 columns titled Normal, Abnormal. Not Examined and Description. Everything on my list is marked "Normal" until you get to Breasts. Nothing is marked except a note in the Description column that says, "Not Present." I had to laugh! LOL
So... we are here almost at the end of September and Brett turned all my medical papers in to the State Department. Now our "Out-of-Country Adventure" fate is in their hands. What a long process this has been! We have never felt differently about moving even after being diagnosed. Let's hope they feel the same way. Cross your fingers!

In other info--
We got all our passport applications filled out. What a pain! That is a LOT of writing for filling out 6 applications! I know, I'm a whiner! I cracked myself up though when I was filling out my application and I got to the description part. When I got to the hair color box, I asked Brett if he thought I could put "Not Present"? LOL Now that would be funny!

TEAM SHAY: Extra Appreciated Help

During our trip to UT, many people offered to come out and help after my surgery. It was so nice of everyone. We are very lucky to have such a great family! However, we didn't know what help we would need if any (and actually recovery was much better than expected). But then Brett had the opportunity to go down south for some training that had to do with our upcoming move. Yeah for him but that means he would be gone for an entire week. Not that I couldn't have muddled through but not being back on top of everything, a little help would be nice. So we contacted Lori to see if she would be willing to come take his place for the week. With it being the first week of school, we know it was a sacrifice for her family to have her gone. But it turned out to be so helpful that we hope they know how much we appreciated it.
Brett left Sunday morning. Let's just say... we had a long Sunday and Monday! ;) Then, the kids and I picked Lori up from the airport on Tuesday in time for lunch. The kids were so excited to have her come! Especially little Glory. Check out all the fun stuff we did together on our other blog- The post is called Glory Loves Lori . (http://snomaes.blogspot.com/2012/08/glory-loves-lori.html) Yeah for Lori!
In regards to my Cancer Journey though, Lori was a great help. It was such a blessing to have her here to chat and visit with. But not only that... it turned out to be a perfect week for her to be here. I think that I probably overdid it last week because I was way tuckered out! (Oh yeah and Aunt Flo came to visit so that compounded the problem) I ended up taking a nap everyday while Lori watched the kids for me. So nice! I was also able to get the kids off to and from school on their first days with out hauling Glory all over. Glory was in seventh heaven to have her own personal friend to be with! What a blessing! As if that wasn't enough, Lori also cleaned out my freezer. It was in great need of being defrosted but that would require me to lift and move a million things. Lori let me run an errand and go to lunch with my friend and when I came back- whoala! magically... a beautiful, clean, defrosted freezer! Yeah! Thank you! Thank you! I love it!

The week went by way too fast and we kept Lori up way too late! Sorry!. ;( Lori left before the sun came up on Saturday. She drove herself to the airport [we still feel a little guilty about this but it was sure nice to sleep in so, thank you for that as well, Lori] and left the van for Brett to bring home. (He came home by lunchtime) He felt bad he didn't even get to see her at all.
Lori-
Thank you so much for coming and helping us out this week. We loved having you here. You are such a kind, loving, Christlike example for our family! It was so fun to have the kids get to know you more personally. And I always love to chat with you! Thank you for all your service to our family and the sacrifice of your family to let us steal you for a bit! You are the best! We love you tons! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!
Love, All us Seamons ;)

Business as Usual?

I am officially three weeks out from my bilateral mastectomy! Can you believe that? I remember reading blogs where they would write concerns before their surgery, the experience of the day [usually written by someone else] and then whoala a month has passed. WHAT? What happened? What have you been up to? How was the pain? What did you do? I need details people! Then magically that's exactly what I did. It must be an unspoken cancer thing. LOL [OK. Maybe I've written some things but it doesn't feel like it]
Regardless though, business is getting back to usual, I think.

* I am completely off any pain meds including IBprophen. My chest still aches once in a while but a hot pad at bedtime has helped. And it gets better everyday! Hallelujah!
* Brett is back full time to work. In fact he is out of town for a week. (More info on that later.) But he was so great to stay home full time for a week and then work part-time for a little after that. I am very lucky to have a such a great supportive Hubby! XOXO
* I am back to being Chore Master around the house. Once I was up and at 'em [since Monday is bedroom day I am guessing that was maybe by the 13th?], I told the kids it was time to clean bedrooms "Mom's way". I got a lot of eye rolls and whining. LOL
* I am occasionally trying to sleep on my side. I am a huge side/stomach sleeper. Fortunately, I have adjusted adequately at the back-sleeping thing with the aid of lots of pillows. But I miss my side and tummy! ;( However, every once in a while in the last week, I can prop myself just so that I can rest on my side. Anything rubbing against my chest is still a little irritating. Hope that passes eventually!
* Aunt Flo (my nickname for my Menstrual Cycle) has come back to visit. {Sunday, August 19th} And unfortunately it's the pre-IUD one! Which sucks! I had forgotten that this Aunt Flo was the reason I got the IUD in the first place. I think I lost more blood in an hour than I did in my whole bi-lateral mastectomy. Grrrrrr! and I know TMI! LOL Not sure what to do about this business! [I won't ever be able to have another hormone based IUD ever again! bugger!] Now Brett and I will have to be very careful because Fertile Mertile is back in business! Joy!
* I am starting to wear regular shirts. No longer am I limited to my 6 zip-up shirts I bought especially for after surgery. Little by little I have been able to lift my arms higher and higher even though it pulls a little and makes me nervous. It still is a bit painful but I have been able to put stretchy shirts over my head. I can pull on a sports bra as well. Although even wearing a larger size puts a lot of pressure on my chest by the end of the day. Someday that will go away as well, right?
* Finally, my Life Coordinator, my friends and long-distance family (Thanks Davis') have been so gracious to feed my family. But now I am back to making my family a hot meal for dinner all by myself. OK.. not really.. Luckily for me, my freezer is full of ready-to-eat/ just-heat-up meals for me to choose from. Not sure I will ever be able to go back! LOL But that in itself is BUSINESS AS USUAL!

My Lymphedema Fiddledee ID

A little extensive medical lesson for you:

Lymphedema is a potential side effect of breast cancer surgery and radiation therapy that can appear in some people during the months or even years after treatment ends.
LYMPH is a thin, clear fluid that circulates throughout the body to remove wastes, bacteria, and other substances from tissues. EDEMA is the buildup of excess fluid. So lymphedema occurs when too much lymph collects in any area of the body. If lymphedema develops in people who’ve been treated for breast cancer, it usually occurs in the arm and hand, but sometimes it affects the breast, underarm, chest, trunk, and/or back.
Why does lymphedema happen? As part of surgery, many people with breast cancer have at least two or three lymph nodes removed from under the arm (sentinel lymph node biopsy), [This is what I had done and according to the National Cancer Institute, anywhere from 5-17% of women who have SLNB develop lymphedema.] and sometimes many more nodes (axillary lymph node dissection). If the cancer has spread, it has most likely moved into to those underarm lymph nodes first because they drain lymph from the breast. Many people also need radiation therapy to the chest area and/or underarm. [Luckily I did NOT] Surgery and radiation can cut off or damage some of the nodes and vessels through which lymph moves. Over time, the flow of lymph can overwhelm the remaining pathways, resulting in a backup of fluid into the body’s tissues.

So what does that mean for me? I guess it means that I have a 5-17% chance that I could develop lymphedema sometime in the future (although most every site I researched emphasized the risk from SLND is very low) What are percentages for anyways? And what am I supposed to do about my 5-17% risk? It's almost comical how many percentages have been thrown at me the last couple weeks. Like I could ever keep them all straight and IF I develop any of the side effects of my treatments then isn't my personal percentage 100%. LOL Whatever, I guess! 

However, back to lymphedema... I did find this quote. It is actually about a person who has more nodes removed than I did but in all my research, it doesn't ever come straight out and say anything about the sentinel lymph node dissection so this will have to do.

"Anybody who has had axillary lymph node dissection is at risk for life, so follow preventive methods closely at all times. No blood pressure measurement, no injections, and no blood drawn from the affected limb—ever." -Saskia Thiadens, R.N. is a nurse and the founder and executive director of the National Lymphedema Network (NLN), a non-profit organization providing education and guidance to health care professionals and women affected by lymphedema.

I'm not sure now whether it was the doctor or my reading that made me aware of that fact. I do remember having to ask several times to get a NO LIMB bracelet in the hospital after my surgery before anyone got it for me. So, I guess I will have to double check that fact that I should be avoiding those things with Panwalker. Knowing him though he'll tell me "you're young" and only had a little bit of cancer and "you"ll be fine". LOL.

But since I thought avoiding things in my right arm was my responsibility to ultimately avoid Lymphedema , I went on a search for a medical alert bracelet to wear. My searching brought me to this fun website called  Fiddledee IDs. They supply medical alert tags and many options for wearing it. I just bought a very basic band to start with but I have big plans to make some fun bracelets to wear with it. I'm so excited! {I even added a touch of Spanish just in case we do make it to Colombia. So fun!}

Check them out at:  Fiddledee IDs 

OTHER Lymphedema Information:

Here's an article about the reason behind not having anything done to the affected arm:

No Blood Tests, Blood Pressure, I.V., or Injections in this Arm!

By Pat O'Connor, Lymphedema People Nov 1, 2004

Needles

Perhaps the foremost rationale for NOT allowing the use of needles in an arm with lymphedema is the threat of infection. Every break of the skin creates potential entry foci for bacteria. Because of the immunocompromised state of the arm any infection can and often does escalate quickly into cellulitis. These infections cause further damage to the lymphatics, thereby increasing the severity of the lymphedema.

Lymphorrhea (which is the fluid in the arm) is a protein-rich substance that provides excellent nutrition to any bacteria that might gain a foot hold in the arm. Once an infection has begun the excess fluid and any fibrosis of the arm tissue makes it tremendously more difficult to eradicate the bacteria.

Injection of Medicines

The doseage strength of any medicine injected into the arm will be diminished for two reasons. First, because of the fluid accumulation in the arm it is going to be immediately diluted. Following that, because of the impaired fluid outflow of the arm, the medicine will have a more difficult time reaching the remainder of the body system.

IV's

The first reason for not allowing an IV is simply the break in the skin - which would be a continous opening until the removal of the IV. Beyond that and even more important is the simple fact that lymphedema is caused by the inability of the arm to remove even the normal excess fluids of body dynamics. When you add the fluids that are present in the administration of an IV, you catastrophically overload the arm. It simply is totally unable to rid itself of that extra fluid thereby causing a substantial increase inswelling.

Blood Pressure Tests

The danger of having a blood pressure test on an at-risk arm or an arm affected by lymphedema is that the squeeezing involved can cause possible further damage to already fragile lymphatics and blood vessels. If this occurs, it would cause worsening of the lymphedema.

These are common sense approaches that any physician should be immediately aware of.

Here's a few of the early signs to look for: 

Swelling in the arm or hand

Feeling of tightness, heaviness or fullness in the arm or hand

Feeling of tightness in the skin or a thickening of the skin

Pain or redness in the arm or hand

Tight fit of rings, watches or bracelets

Sleep problems

Here's other things to help reduce the chance as well:

1. Protect your skin.

2. Protect the arm and hand from extremes such as overuse, excessive pressure, or extremely hot or cold temperatures.

 3. Work with a lymphedema specialist to develop a gentle exercise plan for strengthening the arm and upper body over time.

4. Lose weight if necessary.

5. Know the signs and symptoms of lymphedema and get help for them right away.

And some helpful links:

This site is really extensive:

http://www.breastcancer.org/treatment/lymphedema/

This is an actual fact worksheet that is very helpful:

http://ww5.komen.org/uploadedFiles/Content_Binaries/806-325.pdf

One last one just because I am an options girl. LOL

http://www.vascularweb.org/vascularhealth/Pages/lymphedema.aspx